Features

Last weekend, despite the chilly, drizzly weather, Janie Perez and her family hitched up their ‘sleigh’ to deliver toys to local neighborhoods in San Marcos. Perez’ son, Alexander Jaramillo, dressed up as Santa for the toy distribution, complete with a COVID-safe face mask beneath his curly, snow-white beard.

Fall planting of petunias was a great idea. The period right after Christmas has always been kind of like a breather for garden gurus as we pause to evaluate plants and ideas that we have put into place in our landscape or perhaps watched other seasoned professionals try.

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The past two weeks I have used this column space for the Christmas script about the birth of Christ our Savior and the arrival of the Magi. Today, we will continue with the holy family’s journey — with the rest of the story.

Giving back to one’s community strengthens towns and neighborhoods and makes them better places to live. Many people volunteer with local charitable organizations, while others make annual donations that help charities and nonprofits achieve their missions.

I have a black vulture that sits atop a utility pole close to my house. It often peers down at me whenever I go out in my driveway and I sometimes get the idea it is waiting for me to keel over so it can come down and dine on my tasty corpse.

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations stand to look a little different this year. Even though guest lists may be smaller and parties much more intimate, hosts can increase the “wow factor” in other ways — namely with the food.

Families are spending more time at home than ever before. Stay-at-home guidelines have led many parents to expand their culinary horizons, and time in the kitchen can be made more enjoyable by getting the whole family involved.